Thu.Jun 05, 2025

article thumbnail

Transforming Retail Returns: From Challenge to Opportunity

Parcel Pending

In todays fast-paced, customer-focused retail environment, returns have transformed from a routine operational task into a pivotal aspect of the shopping experience. With online sales continuing to climb and U.S. retail sales projected to reach $5.42 trillion by 2025 , consumer expectations around returns, including how, when, and where they can be made, have never been higher.

article thumbnail

Toys R Us collapses again, goes into administration

Inside Retail

Toys and clothing retailer Toys R Us ANZ has gone into voluntary administration and has appointed Luke Andrews and Duncan Clubb of BDO Business Restructuring as its administrators, effective immediately. This comes after the company posted its first-half sales of $3.1 million compared to $5.9 million during the same period last year. Since having previously entered into administration in 2018, the company shifted to an online-only model.

Light 179
Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Trending Sources

article thumbnail

The Omnichannel Approach and How UK Retail Brands are Leveraging it Masterfully

Retail Focus

Adaptability has long been the cornerstone of a successful UK business. Even the longest-standing retail brands that are known for a very specific corner of the market have innovated in different ways over the years. In the last 20 years, several new paths to innovation and adaptability have emerged, and uniquely, businesses can cost-effectively tap into almost all of them.

article thumbnail

Dickies is apparently quitting Australia and New Zealand 

Inside Retail

American workwear retailer Dickies is holding a closing-down sale on its Australian website, while its New Zealand website has been closed for nearly two weeks. The brands Facebook and Instagram pages have posted closing-down sales for its Gold Coast and Brisbane outlet stores, with the outlets set to close on June 15. Under the Instagram post regarding the Brisbane and Gold Coast sale, a customer commented wht abt Auckland to which the official Dickies ANZ account replied saying, “No, tha

article thumbnail

Breaking The Commerce Bottleneck: Your SAP Exit Plan Starts Now

Speaker: Jason Cottrell and Gireesh Sahukar

Retailers know the clock is ticking–legacy SAP Commerce support ends in 2026. Legacy platforms are becoming a liability burdened by complexity, rigidity, and mounting operational costs. But modernization isn’t just about swapping out systems, it’s about preparing for a future shaped by real-time interactions, AI powered buying assistants, and flexible commerce architecture.

article thumbnail

SSAS Pension Strategies To Support Omnichannel Retail Investments

Retail Focus

The impact of the 2020 lockdown was felt across various business sectors, particularly retail. To survive, many businesses had to switch to the omnichannel model. For those unfamiliar with “omnichannel retail,” it’s a model that fuses in-store and eCommerce channels. This means businesses can sell products to customers in different ways (online and in physical stores), and they make sure the experience feels smooth and connected.

Strategy 130
article thumbnail

Loyalty war: David Jones signs with Qantas after Myer move

Inside Retail

David Jones has teamed up with Qantas as the premium department store prepares to launch its loyalty program David Jones Rewards later this year. As part of the partnership, customers will be able to earn and redeem either David Jones Rewards Points or Qantas Points when they shop at the retailers 40 stores and online. David Jones shoppers will be able to redeem their Qantas Points on a wide range of rewards across the Qantas Frequent Flyer program, including 20 million reward seats, flight up

More Trending

article thumbnail

NRF’25: How Sam’s Club China and Golden ABC forged unique paths to success

Inside Retail

Sams Club China, the membership-based discount omnichannel retailer and Golden ABC, the Philippines-founded multibrand fashion company, could hardly be more different in terms of retail proposition. But they both share stunning growth pathways to become dominant players in their respective categories and markets. Leaders of the two companies featured on Day Three of the NRF25 Asia Pacific edition in Singapore on Thursday.

Shopping 130
article thumbnail

The Power of Unity, Part IV | Speaking to Customers: How Signage and Seasonal Design Shape Success

VMS

In the competitive landscape of modern retail, success often hinges on elements that extend far beyond product selection and pricing. Two critical components that can make or break the customer experience are strategic signage systems and thoughtful seasonal programming. These elements work together to create environments that not only inform and guide customers but also create lasting emotional connections to build brand loyalty and return business.

Unity 59
article thumbnail

From surplus to impact: Retail’s answer to $4.5 billion in wasted goods

Inside Retail

A new Deloitte Access Economics report, commissioned by not-for-profit Good360 Australia, reveals that nearly $4.5 billion worth of new, unsold goods are wasted annually. The report highlights a growing disconnect between rising consumer demand for essentials on one hand, and substantial volumes of surplus stock on the other, much of it heading towards landfill.

Fashion 130
article thumbnail

Bluewater to welcome new-to-market jewellery brand

Retail Focus

Bluewater has announced that jewellery brand, Jewells, is set to open its doors this Friday, 6th June. The new store will be located on the Lower Guildhall opposite Kiehls. Founded in 2024 by Australian retail mogul Brett Blundy, The Godfather of jewellery retail, Jewells aims to redefine the contemporary jewellery retail space. The store at Bluewater will be one of seven stores opening in the UK on 6th June when the brand launches, with more than 1,000 planned to open over the next 5 years.

Marketing 147
article thumbnail

Humans + Agents = Rethinking Enterprise Commerce with AI

AI agents already analyze trends, draft content, and trigger actions across leading commerce platforms. Yet most organizations still rely on workflows built for human‑only teams, losing speed, margin, and customer loyalty. Humans + Agents: Rethinking Enterprise Commerce in the Age of AI Collaboration shows how to close that gap. In one concise read you’ll see where agent gains surface first, how early adopters prove ROI, and which lean controls keep innovation moving without risking data or bran

article thumbnail

Lululemon sees steady growth across the board in first quarter

Inside Retail

Activewear brand Lululemon has seen a 7 per cent increase in its net revenue to US$2.4 billion in the first quarter of this year, with its comparable sales rising by 1 per cent, as compared to the same period last year. Net revenue in the Americas rose by 3 per cent, while its international revenue increased by 19 per cent. The company’s gross profit increased by 8 per cent to US$1.4 billion, with its gross margin rising to 58.3 per cent.

article thumbnail

Immersive Everywhere to Launch “PEPPA PIG: Surprise Party” at Metrocentre, Gateshead

Retail Focus

Immersive Everywhere, a pioneer in world-class experiential events, is thrilled to announce the launch of “PEPPA PIG: Surprise Party,” at Metrocentre , Gateshead, one of the UKs top five super-regional shopping centres. Opening later this year, this immersive experience – developed under license from leading games, IP and toy company Hasbro – will transport visitors into the world of PEPPA PIG, inviting them to help make Peppas Surprise Party the best one ever.

Gifts 147
article thumbnail

Michaels Acquires Joann’s IP

VMS

A central element of the now-defunct Joann (Hudson, Ohio) chain will become part of the stores operated by The Michaels Co. Inc. (Irving, Texas). The latter firm has agreed to buy the intellectual property and private-label brands of the fabrics-and-crafts brand, Michaels announced in a press release. Terms of the deal, which did not include any Joann store spaces, were not released.

Space 59
article thumbnail

Deliveroo launches drone deliveries in Dublin – a first for the brand

Retail Times

Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! Deliveroo, the on-demand delivery platform, has today launched drone deliveries in Dublin, Ireland. Through a new partnership with Manna, an established global drone delivery operator, the service is designed to support Deliveroos continuous mission to improve the customer experience.

Design 52
article thumbnail

Staying Ahead of UFLPA Enforcement: Best Practices for Retail Supply Chains

Speaker: Ethan Woolley, Director at Kharon

This webinar will explore how companies can proactively address compliance risks–rather than reactively responding to–UFLPA enforcement actions. Ethan Woolley will provide insights into the latest CBP enforcement trends, entity list updates, and industries under increased scrutiny, with a look at potential shifts under the Trump administration. Ethan will also explore how predictive data and strategic due diligence can help organizations stay ahead of regulatory challenges and strengthen complia

article thumbnail

Inside Big W’s slow decline – and what Woolworths might do next

Inside Retail

The clock is ticking on Woolworths hopeful, some might argue fanciful, perseverance with the struggling Big W chain. In May, Amanda Bardwell, Woolworths Group CEO, flagged a loss of around $70 million before interest and tax for the discount department stores for the current financial year. In FY24, Big Ws profit was $14 million on $4.89 billion in sales, a drop of 90 per cent on the $145 million banked in FY23.

article thumbnail

Sammys Nouvelle France Hall

Retail Design Blog

Sammys, founded in 1961 in France, stands as a symbol of timeless elegance and cultural refinement in the world of.

article thumbnail

Retail Shelving: Your Guide to a Better Store

Scrube

Learn how retail shelving can enhance your store's layout and boost sales with practical tips and strategies for modern retailers.

Layout 40
article thumbnail

Safety scheme for vulnerable individuals to expand into retail

Talking Retail

Julie Lilley, chief executive of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), has been appointed as an ambassador for Ask for Angela, a safety scheme designed to support individuals who feel vulnerable or unsafe in public spaces.

Space 88
article thumbnail

Cut Costs & Complexity: Smarter Fulfillment for Home, Furniture & DIY Brands

Late deliveries. Split shipments. Spiraling freight costs. For home, furniture, and DIY brands, fulfillment has never been more complex—or more critical. This report outlines how a smarter, AI-ready order management system (OMS) helps you reduce shipping costs, streamline project-based fulfillment, and ensure accurate inventory across every channel.

article thumbnail

Changi T5: design, technology and sustainability for the future of travel

Design Wanted

Terminal 5 at Changi Airport introduces a radical new vision of the airport experience: no longer just a logistical node, […] The post Changi T5: design, technology and sustainability for the future of travel appeared first on DesignWanted.

Design 59
article thumbnail

‘Born to Mix’ cocktail campaign for Absolut Vodka

Talking Retail

Absolut Vodka has launched a new phase of its global marketing campaign, Born to Mix. The brand says the campaign is aimed at spotlighting the powerful connection between dance and cocktails.

article thumbnail

Moss unveils new Birmingham Bullring store –

Retail Times

Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! Moss, the established menswear retailer, has opened the doors to its newest destination store in Birminghams iconic Bullring Shopping Centre on Friday 30th May 2025. This latest opening marks another bold step in the brands mission to reimagine the way men shop for style blending expert service, contemporary design, and timeless tailoring.

article thumbnail

New look and flavours for Zyn nicotine pouches

Talking Retail

Philip Morris Limited (PML) has unveiled two new flavours and a new look for its Zyn nicotine pouch brand. The new flavours Spearmint and Apple Mint will also come in a new 1.5mg-strength pouch.

Design 64
article thumbnail

From Rigid To Resilient: Why Enterprises Need Modular Commerce Now

Speaker: Benjamin Woll, Tiffany Spizzo, and Jaime Santos Alcón

Enterprise commerce is at an inflection point. Rigid, monolithic platforms slow brands down, but a full replatforming is disruptive and costly. Modular architecture offers a flexible, scalable alternative - allowing enterprise brands to modernize without ripping and replacing their entire stack. Learn how a composable approach helps modernize commerce stacks while maintaining control over critical systems.

article thumbnail

Vispring, luxury British bedmaker, expands in US with 17 new locations in 2025 and remains resilient amid trade changes

Retail Times

Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! Vispring, the iconic British manufacturer of handcrafted luxury mattresses, is proud to announce the continued expansion of its U.S. retail presence in 2025, with 17 new locations set to open across the country as the brand celebrates rare growth success in the US despite recent tariff changes.

article thumbnail

Functional drinks boom as Gen Z swaps coffee and alcohol for healthier alternatives

Talking Retail

Functional drinks are becoming a staple for a new generation of consumers, led by health-conscious Gen Z shoppers, according to new data from Ocado Retail.

article thumbnail

Aldi to donate proceeds from tomato sales to Teenage Cancer Trust

Retail Times

Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! Aldi is joining forces with Teenage Cancer Trust in a new fundraising drive aimed at supporting young people facing cancer. In a two-week fundraising initiative starting from Monday 2ndJune, proceeds from sales of the supermarkets 220g Specially Selected Piccolato Tomatoes will contribute to an expected 25,000 donation for the charity.

52
article thumbnail

Co-op and Royal Mail partner to roll our parcel lockers

Talking Retail

Co-op and Royal Mail have signed a partnership to introduce parcel lockers at the retailer’s stores. The first ones will launch in summer, with plans for lockers at 100 stores. The lockers will allow people to drop off pre-labelled Royal Mail parcels and returns 24/7.

article thumbnail

AI for Commerce: Foundations, Aspirations, and Hype

AI is rapidly transforming digital commerce, but how do you separate real opportunities from hype? Moderated by Orium, AI for Commerce: Foundations, Aspirations, and Hype , experts from Bloomreach , commercetools , Contentstack , and Fluent Commerce explores where AI is already delivering results and where its potential is still unfolding. This masterclass dives into proven AI applications, emerging innovations , and the gaps between promise and reality in commerce.

article thumbnail

Sales expert joins Kleen-Tex as firm’s UK expansion ramps up

Retail Times

Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! A sales expert with over 30 years experience working with some of Europes biggest brands has joined growing mat maker Kleen-Tex. Jane Wright has been appointed UK sales manager (North and Midlands) at Kleen-Tex, which recently announced it was launching its flagship wash+dry brand in the UK.

article thumbnail

New data shows UK office workers spend £57m a week on chocolate

Talking Retail

As Brits return to the office en masse, office workers are shelling out an estimated 57m per week on chocolate, according to new data from Virgin Media O2 Business Movers Index Despite 82% of people adjusting their spending habits at the start of this year,… This story continues at New data shows UK office workers spend 57m a week on chocolate Or just read more coverage at Talking Retail

52
article thumbnail

Cornish Bakery targets 400+ UK locations

Retail Times

Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! From the humble origins of a small fishing village in Cornwall, Cornish Bakery has been highly successful in expanding into tourist hotspots and has since moved into high streets, retail outlet centres, motorway services, and event spaces such as the NEC in Birmingham.

article thumbnail

High Streets UK sets out four point plan to tackle retail crime

Talking Retail

Following this weeks Safer High Streets Forum in London, High Streets UK has set out a four-point policy proposal to urgently tackle prolific offending, business crime, anti-social behaviour, and organised criminal activity taking place on the UKs flagship high streets.

article thumbnail

The Evolving Retailers Fulfillment Strategy: Meeting Demands with Agility

Speaker: Becky Parisotto and John Vurdelja

Fulfillment is no longer just about getting products from point A to point B – it's about crafting seamless, scalable, customer first experiences. Flexible fulfillment strategies are more important than ever for those aiming to stay ahead and build resilience as retail enters a new era in 2025. Learn how to optimize fulfillment processes, tackle complex, multi-vendor orders, and create seamless customer experiences – from white-glove delivery for high-value items to quick-ship solutions for ever